Mahonia Bealei Leather Leaf #3

This is a standout at Mitchell’s because it does its best work when most other plants are hitting the snooze button. While the rest of your landscape is dormant, the Mahonia is putting on a show. It has an architectural, almost prehistoric look with thick, leathery leaves that stay green year-round. But the real magic happens in late winter when it shoots up bright sprays of golden-yellow flowers.

And the smell? Incredible. Those winter blooms smell like lemon and lily-of-the-valley, giving you a hint of spring long before the calendar catches up.

In the King, Mount Airy, and Winston-Salem area, the Mahonia is a lifesaver for those tricky, shady spots. It thrives under the canopy of large trees where grass and sun-loving shrubs just give up. Plus, because the leaves are prickly, it’s a natural deterrent for unwanted garden guests.

Why we recommend them for NC Piedmont Triad yards:

• Aromatherapy in February: Who says the garden is closed for winter? The fragrant yellow blooms provide a sweet, lemony scent and bright color during the dreariest months of the year.

• Deer Resistant: We know how hungry the local deer population can be. Thanks to its spiny, tough texture, deer generally take one look (and one sniff) and keep on walking.

• The "Berry" Best: After flowering, this shrub produces grape-like clusters of blue-black berries. They add visual interest in early summer and are a favorite snack for local songbirds.

Best Used For: Shady woodland gardens, privacy screens (nobody is walking through a hedge of this!), and brightening up dark corners under large shade trees.

The Leatherleaf Mahonia is a steady grower, typically reaching 6–10 feet tall and wide. It loves the shade and tolerates our local clay soil well once established. For more on how to care for this winter warrior, check out the NC State Extension Plant Toolbox [Berberis bealei] or chat with our team at the nursery.